STEM curriculum is based on the idea of teaching science, technology, engineering, and math in an integrated format with real-life applications. Across the country, there has been a push in developing students that are equipped with the knowledge and skills to enter the workforce in high demand careers many of which require proficiency in STEM competencies. According to the Department of Education, we know that only 16 percent of American high school seniors are proficient in math and interested in a STEM career. Motivating our students to study professions in science, technology, engineering, and math are imperative to meet the growing demand for well-prepared professionals and to keep our country in a top position of innovation.
 
Western School of Science and Technology is working hard to provide a quality STEM education for students in West Phoenix. Western exists to transform Maryvale by improving low-income west Phoenix students’ opportunities for advancement in the global technological economy by providing needed preparation for the academic rigors of college graduation leading to career success. What does this look like in the classroom? Spending time in Ms. Paul’s Engineering class, you see students designing their own projects, reflecting on their work, and initiating improvements. They think about what is working and what isn't.  Students are problem solving in teams learning the necessary academic skills, and in addition, "soft skills" like communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills. There is a lot of deep thinking and problem solving happening in each class period.  

​Recently, The Warriors’ science, technology, engineering, and math (“STEM”) accomplishments received national recognition. Western: CFA is featured in the “Play Space: How We Play” Exhibition at the Center for Architecture in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, which “will showcase over 40 designs from cities around the world for outdoor play spaces that offer young children diverse experiences and  opportunities for interacting, exploring, creating, and growing.”   Western: CFA’s contribution, recognizing the “Building Warriors” program, highlighted students’ work designing, engineering, and building safe play structures on and around the Western: CFA campus. In addition, the “Building Warriors” program was featured in Teach For America’s national magazine, One Day, that highlighted students’ contribution to their community through design thinking and maker education. Kudos to STEM Program Director Allison Paul and our Building Warriors for their accomplishments!
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Peter Boyle, Principal for Western School of Science and Technology
Tiffany Sandoval, Director of Operations for The Teacher Retention Project

It seems like 30 years ago, as I was beginning my entrepreneurial journey, multiple people said that education was broken and needed fixing.  Since then, education has changed a whole bunch, but it still has a long way to go.  
 
As an emerging leader in the temporary (aka substitute) teaching arena, I would like to shake things up.  Big time.  And I need your help to make it happen.
 
Our children need quality teachers.  Our children need teachers who INSPIRE.  Our children need capable substitutes so that every single day can be a productive learning experience. Shaking things up, means equipping our teachers with the knowledge and skills to allow them to be the best teacher that they can be. 
 
This can be achieved by providing targeted training and ongoing professional development for our teachers. This training will come through a partnership with the Teacher Retention Project. The Teacher Retention Project’s mission is to provide Arizona’s most effective teachers with resources, support, and recognition to ensure they make a long-term commitment to the classroom ensuring our students receive a quality education.  In alignment with that mission, TRP will be providing training in preparation, instruction, and classroom environment.  In addition, TRP will support on the ground through individualized coaching in an effort to develop both the instructional and content domains.  Together, we will ensure that all substitute teachers are prepared to successfully instruct and manage classroom conduct.
 
Our goal is that our teachers are able to be a part of the schools and communities where they instruct and that the substitute teaching experience is an opportunity for passionate individuals to make a difference in the life of a child. Deciding to spend one day a week in the classroom for a motivated, caring individual can make a big difference in our schools. Substitute teaching is an excellent way to give back to the community and create memorable moments for both substitute teachers and their students. For more information please see our website at http://www.teachersoncallaz.com.
 
Dan Nienhauser
Executive Director
Teachers On Call Arizona